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Description of 1st Floor (Basement), Waterloo Campus Library

Description follows for blind and partially sighted

The basement floor has the Archives & Special Collections, including the Julia Hendry Reading Room. There are also areas for librarians and library technical services.

Status

Last checked: June 2nd, 2023

Archives and Special Collections

Description follows for blind and partially sighted

University libraries often have archives and special collections departments. They collect rare and historically significant materials. Researchers from around the world will travel to university archives to do primary-source research.

History classes may come to the archive for a class. However, anyone is welcome to come on their own. Ask to feel the cover of a 15th century hymnal or vellum that was used in ancient books.

Laurier Archives and Special Collections acquires, preserves, and makes accessible archives and rare books of enduring value. Researchers from Laurier and beyond use archives and rare books to conduct primary-source research. Laurier Archives and Special Collections is open to students, staff, faculty, and the public. 

These holdings must be used in the Julia Hendry Archives Reading Room. To protect our unique archives and rare books, the space has a few more security precautions than other parts of the library:

  • Lockers outside to hold bags, coats, and other personal belongings
  • No pens, markers, or highlighters allowed in the reading room
  • No food or drink allowed
  • Large window between archival staff area and the reading room

The following devices are available in this space:

  • Microfilm reader
  • Overhead scanner
  • Electrical outlets

Department Head Offices

  • Head of Information Resources
  • Head of Digital Initiatives
  • Head of Archives and Special Collections

Library Technical Services Areas

  • Various areas for library technical staff
  • Student employee room

Amenities

  • Single user, all gender washroom with accessibility features (example from main floor)
  • Two multi-user, gender specific washrooms. Users can use the washroom that aligns with their gender identity
  • Water-fountain 

Other Spaces

  • Shipping and receiving

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Page Owner: Mark Weiler

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